1812Blockhouse

Note: This was originally posted in early 2018 and has been updated with additional information.

It wasn’t that long ago that Richland Countians obtained local news and information almost solely via newspaper, radio, and television.

Everyone who has lived through some or all of the last twenty years knows the impact that the Internet has had on communication. In fits and starts, Mansfield businesses and organizations have joined local media in staking out an online presence. Today, it’s a standard part of doing business.

This week, when TourismOhio announced its list of new visitors experiences which can be enjoyed across the state in 2019, Richland County was included.

With a full slate of exciting new developments and experiences, Ohio has lots to celebrate in 2019. From iconic anniversaries and exciting expansions, to lodging updates and new cultural offerings, there will be even more for visitors to enjoy in Ohio during 2019. More…

One could say that the village center of Plymouth might be termed a “One-Half Landmark of Richland,” as Main Street, the downtown’s main thoroughfare, straddles the Richland County – Huron County line.

It would be hard to argue, however, that its downtown boasts one of the most intact sets of nineteenth century commercial buildings in north central Ohio. And, as of December of last year, it is also an area recognized as significant by its inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places. More…

Planning is well underway for this August’s celebration of the quarter century anniversary of The Shawshank Redemption, and word is getting out.

On Friday, news hit the Columbus and other Gatehouse Media markets through a piece entitled, ‘Shawshank cast gathers to celebrate 25th anniversary in Mansfield.’ In the staff-written piece, the author shares the up-to-date list of cast members who have registered their intention to appear; a list of locations along the Shawshank Trail; and a list of events during the celebration. More…

The stately building on the southwest corner of Third and Bowman Streets near downtown represents a 171 year history of the Episcopal Church in Mansfield.

Established in 1846, the same year that brought railroads to town, Grace Episcopal Church’s first parishioners included members of the Bartley and Sherman families. Two years later, its first church building was constructed on Third Street just east of Mulberry. More…

One of the oldest bridges in Richland County, and one immediately adjacent to properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is scheduled for repair and stabilization.

The Ohio Department of Transportation is planning to repair a 13’ X 128’ stone arch bridge on Park Avenue West, between South Park and Middle Park, by installing an arched tunnel liner and concrete knee walls to support the liner. Storm sewer repairs and catch basins will be relocated from over the top of the structure and out of the center of SR 430. More…

March in Ohio can be a trying time. You never know what season you’ll get on any given day, but there are plenty of exciting happenings and events around Richland County. Jump start your spring thaw with family-favorite festivals, riveting performances, and outdoor adventures. More…

Not only was her name a bit unusual, her life was a pacesetting one in the area of higher education for women. Unfortunately, it was also one which ended in tragedy.

1812Blockhouse shares posts in our “Richland Roots” series to talk about the less-commonly known stories of people born here or who lived here and went on to make significant contributions to state, regional, or national history. Other posts in the series are available here. More…

We recently ran across vintage photos of the Ski Carnival at Snow Trails dating from 1967, including a picture of that year’s Ohio Winter Ski Carnival Queen. In honor of this weekend’s 58th Annual version, we thought we would pass these along More…

The Studebaker Drivers Club Inc. (SDC) has announced the selection of Mansfield as site of the 2019 SDC International Meet. Studebaker owners from across North America and beyond will bring their classic Studebakers and families to Mansfield for a week of history, fun, and comradery.

SDC Members will show their vehicles, share information and memories, and even participate in concours judging. The 55th Annual SDC International Meet will take place at the Richland County Fairgrounds in Mansfield from September 8-14, 2019. This event will bring an estimated 1,300 people to the area during the week-long event. These visitors will stay in hotels across the county and generate an estimated $1.1 million in economic impact on Richland County. More…

A word to the wise: detours will be in place this summer as an important bridge replacement project in southern Richland County takes place. Awareness and a little bit of planning should result in little impact on your summer tourism experiences.

The State Route 95 Bridge Replacement Project has an estimated start date of June 3 and an estimated end date of August 30. A portion of SR 95 will be closed during the project and traffic rerouted. More…

Ohio Haunters Association, a non-profit group of Halloween Enthusiasts and Haunted Attraction Industry professionals and amateurs, is debuting an all-new convention at the historic Ohio State Reformatory from May 17 to May 19.

This convention is designed for Halloween and Haunted Attraction enthusiasts as well as all members of the Haunted Attraction Industry but is open to the public. More…

Richland County has produced or been the home to a wide variety of individuals that have made important contributions to the world over the last 106 years. 1812Blockhouse has been sharing their stories in a series we started last year called “Richland Roots.” For other Richland Roots stories, click here.

As the country moves toward the centennial of women achieving the right to vote in national elections, we profile a native Richland Countian who contribute in her own unique way to achieving that end. Unfortunately, she never saw the fruits of her work, dying at the young age of 40. More…

Mansfield has produced and nurtured its fair share of talent over its 200 year history. The roster of individuals born, raised, and supported here that have achieved some measure of success in artistic endeavors is a long one.

Sure, you know of Luke Perry, and Sylvia McNair, and the Music Explosion. Have you heard of Darrell Banks, however? No, not the Richland County Commissioner; we’re referring to a name known to many lovers of pop and soul music in the latter part of the 1960s. More…

Why Not Be A Part Of 1812Blockhouse!?!

If you would like to be a part of this groundbreaking news and information site by sharing ideas, energy, and/or talent, please drop us a line at: 1812blockhouse@gmail.com. or DM/message us on Facebook or Twitter.